Pensioner reconnects with his family during lockdown after losing hearing aids

A pensioner has been reconnected with his family during lockdown after he lost his hearing instruments.

Frank Reilly, 88, who lives with daughter Susan Sweeney, 58, in Largs, became increasingly distressed as he could no longer communicate with family members.

But thanks to a Glasgow audiologist, Frank has been able to get back in touch with the outside world.

Susan said: “My father and I were no longer able to talk to one another which was causing him to become extremely lonely and isolated.

“I called Specsavers, unsure if they would be able to help given the restrictions with social distancing, and thankfully the audiology team were on-hand with a solution to help my father.”

Ryan Forbes, audiology director for Specsavers at the Glasgow Trongate branch, knew immediately that Frank required urgent assistance following a consultation on the phone.

Ryan said: “People living with hearing loss can feel isolated under normal circumstances so I knew that Frank’s situation was a priority.

“After speaking to Susan I had a look at Frank’s file and found that there was absolutely something we could do to help.”

Allowing the family to continue their all-important conversations, while keeping Frank safe, Ryan dispensed a set of hearing instruments remotely.

He programmed them in-store and had them shipped directly to Frank’s home, removing any risk of contact while adhering to the social distancing rules.

Frank is now able to hear the television, communicate by telephone and most importantly, he’s able to communicate with his daughter during the difficult lockdown period.

Susan said: “My father and I are both absolutely delighted. I just can’t thank the team enough for all their help.

“The service was just fabulous from beginning to end – we’re delighted with the care and compassion of the team.”

Ryan added: ‘This is exactly the reason Specsavers is open for care. Keeping in contact with friends and family is so important during this difficult time, particularly for the elderly and vulnerable.

“We’re delighted that Frank is now hearing clearly and enjoying chatting with his daughter and watching television freely.”

Opticians and audiologists at the likes of Specsavers are classified as key workers and are able to provide urgent and vital care to those with hearing and vision problems.

Specsavers has set up an Ask the Expert group on Facebook for people to ask their team of expert optometrists and audiologists’ questions they might have about their sight or hearing while our stores are open urgent and essential appointments only.